Top 10 Home Updates
These projects will bring the biggest return on investment if you sell your home
By Dona DeZube, FrontDoor.com |
Published: 2/02/2009

10. Dig Up Some Value
It's not on Remodeling magazine's list, but landscaping -- especially plant-it-yourself landscaping -- offers a great return on investment.
The average homeowner spends about $3,502 for landscaping and another $1,465 on a designer, according to the American Nursery & Landscape Association. If you're not sure where to start, local garden centers often offer free design services. You can also peruse your community for ideas and ask the neighbors what works for them.
Focus on making your walkway and doorway a focal point. If your doorway is overwhelmed by greenery, replace overgrown shrubbery with flowering foundation plants, mixing heights and colors for eye-catching drama. A walkway leads buyers' eyes to your door.
More Smart Home Updates:
- Spruce up or replace your siding.
- Add a deck.
- Tweak your kitchen.
- Repair or replace windows.
- Overhaul your kitchen.
- Strip the bathroom.
- Find cash in the attic.
- Earn bucks from the basement.
- Add space to add value.
- Add low-cost landscaping.
Remodeling magazine's 2009 Cost vs. Value Report is copyright 2008, Hanley Wood, LLC. Reproduced by permission. Complete regional and city data from the Remodeling magazine 2009 Cost vs. Value Report can be downloaded for free at www.costvsvalue.com.
More on FrontDoor: